Riverina and Central West to reap Federal Budget benefits

The Nationals’ Federal Member for Riverina and Minister for Small Business Michael McCormack has declared the 2017 Federal Budget as fair and balanced and indicated it is set to benefit the residents, small businesses and communities of the Riverina and Central West.

Mr McCormack said the Budget handed down by the Treasurer Scott Morrison ensures Australia lives within its means and at the same time continues to deliver increased funding for schools, infrastructure and regional communities.

“The Budget is fantastic for regional Australia and will have a significantly positive impact in the area I represent,” Mr McCormack said.

Mr McCormack has welcomed several significant announcements which will see job creation, investment and growth in the towns and villages of the electorate from Peak Hill to Yerong Creek.

“I have no doubt local exporters, farmers and producers will be very pleased with the $8.4 billion investment in the inland rail project. This is nation-building infrastructure which will become a corridor of commerce, creating economic growth along the entirety of the route and ensure produce from Riverina farms finds its way to the dinner plates of Asia.

“Local councils, specifically the mayors I’ve already spoken to have welcomed the news the freeze on the indexation of Financial Assistance Grants has been lifted and 50% of next year’s funding will also be made available this financial year, allowing councils access to much-needed funds to start work on key projects and community developments.

“Additional funding of $18.6 billion nationally will be allocated to schools across the country over the next decade and this money will directly benefit the 128 schools of the Riverina electorate which will be better off with increased funding, delivered through a fair, transparent and needs-based model.

“Small businesses will embrace the tax cuts we’ve announced and the very popular $20,000 instant asset write-off which has been extended for an additional 12 months, ensuring they can continue to reinvest and grow their business.

“I’m proud to be a member of the Coalition Government and back the many announcements made in this year’s budget which will only see our region continue to grow and prosper.”

More information on the 2017 Budget can be found by visiting: www.budget.gov.au or contacting Mr McCormack’s electorate office.